Let’s say a mighty oak in your yard decides to dramatically collapse onto your roof during a windstorm. You’d gasp, grab the phone, and maybe worry about how much it’s going to cost. Good news: your homeowners policy might help cover it. The catch? It’s all about how the tree fell, where it landed, and what your policy says. Understanding what’s covered (and what’s not) means fewer surprise bills and less trouble with your insurance adjuster.
When Insurance Can Cover Tree Removal
Insurance companies are in the business of covering the unexpected. If a tree falls and damages a covered structure like your house, garage, or even your shed because of a covered peril (think windstorm, lightning strike, hail), your insurer might pick up the removal cost. For example, if a tree crashes through your roof after a hailstorm, you’re in “good claim territory.” Some policies will even help remove the debris up to a set limit (often around $500 to $1,000) if the tree caused the structural damage.
Another scenario: if a neighbor’s tree falls on your house and it wasn’t obviously their negligent act, you might still be covered under your policy for the damage. Yep, it gets weird, but it happens.
When Insurance Usually Does Not Cover Tree Removal
Now for the bummer part. If a tree falls but doesn’t hit any structures, or if you want to remove a dead tree before it falls (so, preventative), most standard homeowners policies will say: “Sorry, that’s on you.” More specifically:
- If your tree is diseased, dead, or visibly decaying and you do nothing and it falls, the insurer may deny the claim on grounds of negligence.
- If you just want routine removal of a tree before it causes damage, that’s maintenance, not a covered peril.
- If the tree falls because of something clearly excluded in your policy (like a flood or earth movement) you might be out of luck.
So What Should You Do (Without Pulling Your Hair Out)?
Here’s a quick guide to keep you on solid ground:
- Take photos of fallen trees and damage before you move anything. Insurance loves evidence.
- Check whether the fallen tree hit a covered structure. If yes, you’re in a better spot. If not, you might be paying out of pocket.
- Read your policy’s “perils covered” section. If wind and hail are in but neglect or decay are excluded, you’ll know where you stand.
- Let an arborist tell you if the tree was risky beforehand. That documentation can help, or warn you that the insurer might deny the claim.
How Rock Creek Can Help
Here’s where Rock Creek Tree, Turf & Landscape comes in. If you’re dealing with a fallen or dangerous tree and wondering if your insurance will help, or if you just want to avoid a “pay out of pocket” nightmare, we’ve got your back. We offer a free inspection of your trees, assess damage or risk factors, and help you document what’s going on. Our certified arborists work with your insurance process, giving you the professional support you need to make sense of what’s covered and what isn’t.
Don’t sit there wondering if your tree removal will cost you. Contact Rock Creek today for a free evaluation and expert help navigating your insurance claim while ensuring your trees and property are safe and cared for.